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Showing results for by surprise. Search instead for fysikpris.
Definitions

by surprise

ADVERB
short
Synonyms
STRONG
suddenly unawares
WEAK
aback forthwith sudden unanticipatedly unaware unexpectedly without delay without hesitation without warning
ADVERB
unawares
Synonyms
STRONG
short
WEAK
aback abruptly accidentally by accident by mistake carelessly ignorantly inadvertently mistakenly off guard sudden surprisingly unconsciously unexpectedly unintentionally unknowingly unprepared unready unwittingly
Antonyms
WEAK
consciously knowingly

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Panella got wind of “The End of Oak Street” from a post highlighting Hathaway’s slate of upcoming films, only to be caught by surprise.

From Salon • Apr. 12, 2026

She wanted to meet with the group’s leadership to explain her late-breaking decision to challenge Mayor Karen Bass, her longtime ally, which took just about everyone in the city by surprise.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 21, 2026

Mullin declined to apologize to Paul for his past comments and, referring to the assault by his neighbor, said "I don't think anybody should be hit by surprise."

From Barron's • Mar. 18, 2026

The administration says the blockade took it by surprise.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

I could tell I’d taken her by surprise because her eyes widened for just a second.

From "It All Comes Down to This" by Karen English